A former prison warden with an exemplary track record attacked two female police officers who came to her aid.

Maidstone Magistrates’ Court heard Kim Anderson’s life had spiralled out of control since she was subjected to a domestic assault in February.

Despite never having been in trouble with the police before it was the fifth time the 50-year-old had appeared at the court having been arrested four times in as many months.

Paul Shaw, prosecuting, told the court in February officers were called to reports of a disturbance at a community centre in Maidstone and upon arrival found Anderson who was refusing to leave at closing time.

Anderson, who was living in Boxley Road at the time, had to be escorted from the premises by PCs Howlett and Bolt.

No offence had been committed and the officers agreed to take Anderson, who was visibly distressed, home.

She asked to be dropped off at McDonald’s drive-thru, on Hermitage Lane, to buy a drink and the officers agreed but as soon as she left the car she showed them her middle finger.

The pair left but soon returned to the fast-food restaurant as they were concerned Anderson, now living with friends in Lower Stone Street, might be causing trouble.

Staff informed them she had locked herself in the disabled toilet and they were concerned for her welfare. The officers managed to get her to leave the cubicle but she began shouting and swearing at diners.

As they escorted her to their vehicle she lashed out, scratching PC Howlett before holding her fist up to her. PC Bolt then attempted to arrest her but Anderson dug her nail into her arm.

Margaret Hyde, defending, successfully requested sentencing be adjourned to a mental health court on Thursday as Anderson’s health had suffered significantly since February’s attack.

Anderson denies a separate assault charge and will stand trial for this on Wednesday, July 19, at Medway Magistrates’ Court.